What is Reasonable Accommodation / Adjustment?
Reasonable accommodation or adjustment in digital accessibility refers to modifications or adaptations made to websites, applications, and digital platforms to ensure equal access for people with disabilities. This concept is legally mandated under various accessibility laws, including the Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018 in the UK, which requires public-sector websites and apps to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards.
Examples of reasonable digital accommodations include:
- Providing alternative text for images
- Implementing keyboard navigation support
- Offering captions for video content
- Ensuring sufficient color contrast ratios
- Creating accessible PDF documents
Importance in Digital Accessibility
Reasonable accommodation is fundamental to digital inclusion and web accessibility compliance. Under accessibility standards like WCAG 2.1 AA, ADA compliance requirements, and Germany's BFSG (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz), organizations must demonstrate they've made reasonable efforts to accommodate users with disabilities.
The UK's 2018 regulations align with the EU Web Accessibility Directive, mandating that public sector bodies conduct regular accessibility monitoring and publish accessibility statements. These laws recognize that perfect accessibility isn't always immediately achievable, but reasonable steps must be taken progressively.
Practical Implementation for Web and CMS Platforms
When implementing reasonable accommodations in web development and UI/UX design:
- Content Management Systems: Configure CMS platforms to include accessibility features like alt-text fields, heading structure controls, and color contrast checkers
- Design Phase: Incorporate accessibility considerations from wireframing through final design, including focus indicators and scalable text
- Development: Use semantic HTML, ARIA labels, and ensure keyboard navigation functionality
- Testing: Conduct regular accessibility audits using automated tools and user testing with people with disabilities
- Documentation: Maintain accessibility statements explaining current accommodations and improvement timelines
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Several misconceptions surround reasonable accommodation in digital accessibility:
- "All or Nothing" Approach: Believing that if perfect accessibility can't be achieved immediately, no effort is required. Reasonable accommodation is progressive and incremental.
- Cost Excuse: Assuming accommodation is always expensive. Many accessibility improvements are low-cost or free when implemented during initial development.
- One-Size-Fits-All: Thinking a single accommodation works for all disabilities. Different users need different accommodations (screen readers vs. keyboard navigation).
- Retrofit Only: Only considering accessibility after launch rather than building it into the design process from the beginning.
- Compliance Box-Ticking: Focusing solely on meeting minimum legal requirements rather than genuine usability for people with disabilities.
Best Practices and Key Takeaway
The most effective approach to reasonable accommodation in digital accessibility is proactive integration rather than reactive compliance. Organizations should:
- Establish accessibility as a core design principle from project inception
- Regularly audit digital platforms using both automated tools and user feedback
- Create clear processes for users to request additional accommodations
- Document accessibility efforts transparently in accessibility statements
- Invest in staff training on accessibility standards and inclusive design
Key Takeaway: Reasonable accommodation in digital accessibility isn't just about legal compliance—it's about creating genuinely inclusive digital experiences. By implementing WCAG 2.1 AA standards systematically and maintaining open channels for user feedback, organizations can ensure their digital platforms serve all users effectively while meeting accessibility compliance requirements.